Untreated tooth infections increase heart disease risk

A new study has found that undetected tooth infections could increase the risk of heart disease by almost three times.

The research, published in the Journal of Dental Research, found that people with untreated tooth infections are 2.7 times more likely to have cardiovascular problems, such as coronary artery disease, than patients who have had treatment of dental infections.

With cardiovascular diseases being a contributor in an estimated 30% of all deaths globally, the Oral Health Foundation is encouraging people to attend the dental practice more regularly, especially if they are experiencing toothache, sensitivity or bleeding gums.

Speaking on the issue, Dr Nigel Carter OBE, CEO of the Oral Health Foundation, said: ‘This research is very worrying as tooth infections are initially caused by tooth decay, which is triggered by poor oral hygiene routines and a diet high in sugar.

‘The major signs of root infection (usually known as a dental abscess) include pain, often when biting down on the tooth, and sometimes swelling. The tooth may also become discoloured. But sometimes infection does not immediately present with these symptoms and can go undetected for some time.

‘Thankfully, maintaining good basic oral health and cutting your risk is very easy. By brushing our teeth last thing at night and at least one other time during the day with a fluoride toothpaste; cut down on the amount of sugary foods and drinks and how often we have them and visiting our dentist regularly, as often as they recommend, we can help prevent disease, not only in the mouth but the whole body too.’

As well as looking after your oral health, preventing gum disease can be boosted by a healthy diet, weight control, exercise and not smoking.

‘Infections occur when decay reaches the centre of the tooth, the dental pulp, when the tooth dies a reservoir of bacteria spreads beyond the end of the root and can enter the bloodstream. Treatment for this would usually be a root canal treatment to remove all of the infected tissue and prevent bacteria spreading,’ Dr Carter added.

‘These new findings add to the existing links between gum disease and cardiovascular disease. It has previously been established that people with gum disease almost twice as likely to develop heart disease than people without it, this makes the need for good oral care even more important.

‘Over recent years’ problems in the mouth have also been linked to other serious conditions such as diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease and problems with pregnancy, so it is vital that we see our oral health as a priority.’

Chicken and egg. The same cohort who have untreated dental disease will be those who are overweight/unfit/untreated hypertension/live off bacon sandwiches whilst enjoying their first cigarette of the day. NHS ‘exempts’ probably…….